In response to the relentless wave of deadly attacks in Benue State, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has temporarily relocated to Makurdi, the state capital, to take direct control of military operations aimed at halting the violence.
The move comes amid growing national concern over near-daily killings of innocent villagers by suspected herdsmen and armed militia groups, which have left scores dead, many injured, and numerous homes destroyed. The humanitarian toll has been devastating, with hundreds displaced and entire communities living in fear.
Lt Gen Oluyede departed Abuja early Tuesday morning alongside his Principal Staff Officers (PSOs) and other top military commanders for an on-the-ground assessment of the deteriorating security situation. Military sources confirmed that the army chief has ordered the deployment of additional troops to Benue, with a clear directive to decisively confront the armed groups terrorizing local communities.
“The COAS is here to see the situation firsthand, review ongoing operations, and lead from the front if necessary,” a senior military source said. “This is a no-tolerance mission.”
While in Benue, General Oluyede is expected to hold high-level strategy meetings with operational and unit commanders. The focus will be on reviewing current tactics and reshaping military responses to meet the urgency of the crisis. Sources say changes in command structures and possible redeployments of key officers are on the table.
The Army Chief is also set to visit attacked villages and military bases to interact with troops and reassure residents. According to insiders, the COAS has expressed deep dissatisfaction over reports of persistent attacks and may personally lead missions to critical flashpoints during his stay.
“The General is not just here for show. He’s here to make an impact and give confidence to both the troops and the people,” said another source.
Benue State has remained a hotspot for violence, with recent attacks claiming dozens of lives. Just last weekend, gunmen killed at least 43 people across several communities in Gwer West and Apa Local Government Areas. The previous week, a Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Solomon Atongo, was shot along the Makurdi–Naka Road, while four other communities—including that of Catholic Bishop Wilfred Anagbe—suffered brutal raids, leaving another 42 people dead, including a mobile police officer.
Many have described the ongoing violence as a form of “ethnic cleansing,” citing the use of sophisticated firearms and coordinated strikes on rural settlements by suspected herdsmen.
As security agencies intensify efforts, the Army leadership has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property in Benue State. General Oluyede is expected to remain in the state for several days before returning to Abuja.
The Nigerian Army’s latest response marks one of the strongest signals yet that the military intends to take a more aggressive and direct role in ending the cycle of violence that has plagued Benue State for years.
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